Methylphenidate (Ritalin)
What is Methylphenidate?
Methylphenidate is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden attacks of deep sleep (1)(3)(4). It works by increasing attention and decreasing restlessness in children and adults who are overactive, cannot concentrate for very long, or are easily distracted and impulsive (1). Methylphenidate is available in various forms, including immediate-release tablets and capsules, extended-release tablets and capsules, and extended-release suspension (1)(5).
Dosage
The dosage of methylphenidate depends on the patient's age, medical condition, and response to treatment. The medication is usually taken once daily in the morning with or without food (1)(5). The recommended starting dose for children aged 6 years and older is 5 mg twice daily, which can be increased by 5-10 mg weekly until the optimal response is achieved (1). The maximum daily dose for children is 60 mg (1). For adults, the starting dose is usually 5-10 mg twice daily, which can be increased by 10 mg weekly until the optimal response is achieved (3). The maximum daily dose for adults is 60 mg (3).
Side Effects
Methylphenidate may cause side effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, or changes in vision (1). Common side effects include insomnia, nervousness, decreased appetite, weight loss, and stomach upset (1)(3)(5). Growth retardation (decreased height, weight, and bone marrow density) is observed when taken long-term in children (2). Serious side effects may include chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, or a fast, irregular heartbeat (1). Methylphenidate has an addiction liability and dependence liability similar to amphetamine, and addiction and psychological dependence are possible and likely when used at high doses as a recreational drug (4).
Interactions
Methylphenidate may interact with other medications, including antidepressants called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or if youβve stopped taking them in the last 14 days, which can cause a sudden increase in blood pressure (3). Other medications that may interact with methylphenidate include blood thinners, anticonvulsants, and antipsychotics (1). Prior consultation with a medical expert is recommended before combining methylphenidate with other drugs or supplements.
Time of Day and With or Without Food
Methylphenidate is usually taken once daily in the morning with or without food (1)(5).
Human Studies
Methylphenidate is FDA-approved for treating ADHD in children and adults and as a second-line treatment for narcolepsy in adults (2). It has been extensively studied in humans and has been shown to be effective in improving attention, reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity, and improving academic and social functioning in children and adults with ADHD (1)(2)(3)(4)(5).
To summarize, Methylphenidate is a CNS stimulant medication used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. It works by increasing attention and decreasing restlessness in children and adults who are overactive, cannot concentrate for very long, or are easily distracted and impulsive. Methylphenidate is available in various forms, including immediate-release tablets and capsules, extended-release tablets and capsules, and extended-release suspension. The dosage of methylphenidate depends on the patient's age, medical condition, and response to treatment. The medication is usually taken once daily in the morning with or without food. Methylphenidate may cause side effects, including insomnia, nervousness, decreased appetite, weight loss, and stomach upset. Serious side effects may include chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, or a fast, irregular heartbeat. Methylphenidate has an addiction liability and dependence liability similar to amphetamine, and addiction and psychological dependence are possible and likely when used at high doses as a recreational drug. Methylphenidate has been extensively studied in humans and has been shown to be effective in improving attention, reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity, and improving academic and social functioning in children and adults with ADHD.
Citations:
(1) https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/methylphenidate-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20068297?p=1
(2) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482451/
(3) https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/methylphenidate-adults/
(4) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Methylphenidate
(5) https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-12114-1516/methylphenidate-hcl-oral/methylphenidate-extended-release-suspension-oral/details
(6) https://www.drugs.com/methylphenidate.html